Reduced Rates on Operating Loans

Agriculture is the backbone of Ohio's economy and critical to our state’s long-term success. However, farmers continue to face challenges when it comes to financing for operations.

Through Ag-LINK, farm operators, agribusinesses, and co-ops can receive up to a 3% interest rate reduction on new or existing operating loans.


For more than 30 years, the program has helped Ohio’s agricultural community to finance upfront costs for feed, seed, fertilizer, fuel, equipment, and other expenses.

 

Enhanced Window for Drought Relief

 

The Ag-LINK Drought Enhancement program conditions are now available for farmers in the following 28 Ohio counties:

AthensBelmontCarrollFairfield
FayetteFranklinGalliaGuernsey
HarrisonHighlandHockingJackson
JeffersonLawrenceLickingMadison
MeigsMonroeMorganMuskingum
NoblePerryPickawayPike
RossTuscarawasVintonWashington

 

Additionally, the enhanced interest rate reduction for Q1 2025 for farmers in eligible counties:

  • High Rate: 3.05%
  • Low Rate: 0.00%
  • Borrower Discount Rate: 3.05%

 


 

  • An eligible borrower:
    • Is either organized for profit or as an agricultural cooperative;
    • Must have headquarters and 51% of operations maintained in Ohio;
    • Must use the loan exclusively for agricultural purposes; and
    • Must agree to comply with all program and financial institution regulations.

 

  • The Ag-Link application period is available year-round.
  • After the loan officer submits the online Ag-LINK application on behalf of the farmer or agribusiness, the Ohio Treasurer’s office begins the review process.
  • If all eligibility criteria are met, the application is approved.
  • Upon request from the financial institution, the Ohio Treasurer’s office will make a deposit or purchase an investment at a negotiated, below-market rate.
  • The financial institution offsets the borrower's interest rate by the same negotiated rate.

 

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Through Ag-LINK, Ohio farm operators and other agricultural businesses can apply for interest rate reductions on new or existing operating loans or lines of credit.

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